One day Varanasi tour - Private & Guided

Varanasi , India

One day Varanasi tour - Private & Guided

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(131 reviews)

10h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the essence of Varanasi in a single unforgettable day with our meticulously curated one-day tour. This condensed journey is designed to provide you with a taste of the city's rich culture and spirituality. Here are some highlights:

Sunrise Boat Ride: Begin your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges River at sunrise, where you can witness the mesmerizing rituals and offerings along the ghats.

Sarnath Excursion: Explore Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, to learn about its historical and spiritual significance.

Walk Through Old Alleys: Stroll through the narrow, ancient alleys of Varanasi, witnessing the city's vibrant street life and discovering hidden gems.

Aarti Ceremony: Conclude your day with the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony, a mesmerizing spectacle of devotion at the ghats that illuminates the city's spiritual heart.

Available options

One day Varanasi tour - Private & Guided

Pickup included

What's included

All kind of taxes, parking and allowances

Mineral water & snacks in the car

Govt aproved local English speaking guide from morning till evening as per itinerary

Private Aircon Car from early morning Pick-up from your hotel till drop back after aarti at disposal

Exclusive boat at the time of sunrise

Private chairs in a private balcony to see evening aarti ceremony

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You shall be picked up from your Hotel at 0530 AM [This changes depending on sunrise time] and taken to river bank for sunrise boat ride. A sunrise boat ride in Varanasi is a truly magical experience. As the sun rises over the horizon, the city comes to life with the sound of chanting, prayers, and the splashing of water. You will see people bathing in the Ganges, performing pujas, and offering prayers.

After this get off the boat and step on Manikarnika Ghat.

Stop 2

After this step down at Manikarnika Ghat. This ghat, or riverside stairway, is known for its deep spiritual and cultural importance. It's where you'll witness the traditional cremation rituals performed by Hindus, which are believed to help departed souls achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

Visiting Manikarnika Ghat offers a glimpse into the profound customs and beliefs of Varanasi. While it may not be a typical tourist attraction, it's a powerful and insightful experience into the rich spiritual traditions of this ancient city. It's a place where the spiritual and practical aspects of life and death converge, making it a fascinating destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Indian culture.

After this return back to hotel for breakfast.

Stop 3

Later in day around Noon, visit to Sarnath - is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. It's where Lord Buddha first preached the Dharma after attaining enlightenment. You will explore ancient ruins of monasteries and stupas, visit the Sarnath Museum to view artifacts, witness the peaceful Deer Park where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the Dhamek Stupa, a revered Buddhist monument. It's a place of profound historical and spiritual importance.

You will see here Ruins of Sarnath, Budhha Temple, large Buddha statue, Archaeological museum and deer park etc.

Stop 4

After this drive to river bank of Ganges and enjoy A walk along the Ganges River in Varanasi which is a mesmerizing journey through the heart of India's spiritual and cultural heritage. Strolling the ancient ghats, one witnesses rituals, cremations, and daily life intertwined with the sacred waters. The ever-flowing river serves as a mirror reflecting the soul of this ancient city, making it a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

Later after this walk and settle down in a private balcony located just behind the place where priest perform evening aarti ceremony. We reserve seats in advance to ensure you get the best view of aarti and hear all the chanting and Mantra's.

Witness the grand aarti ceremony with best view from your seat.

The evening aarti ceremony in Varanasi is a captivating and spiritual ritual that takes place on the ghats of the sacred Ganges River. Usually conducted at the Dashashwamedh Ghat, it is a grand spectacle of fire, music, and chanting. Devotees and tourists gather to witness the priests offering prayers to the river, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of bells and conch shells. The aarti is a deeply moving experience, symbolizing the city's devotion to the Ganges and its rich cultural heritage.

After this you shall be dropped back to hotel and our services will end here.

What's not included

Gratuities

Any meal etc

Everything which is not mentioned in inclusions

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

5 reviews

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4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

126 reviews

5★

121

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1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is a spiritual and cultural hub on the banks of the Ganges River. Known for its ancient temples, vibrant ghats (riverfront steps), and rich cultural heritage, it offers a profound experience of India's spiritual traditions and historical depth.

Top Attractions

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a major pilgrimage site. The temple's golden spire and intricate architecture are awe-inspiring.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Dasaswamedh Ghat

One of the most famous ghats in Varanasi, Dasaswamedh Ghat is a bustling hub of activity. It's known for its evening Ganga Aarti, a spectacular ritual of worshipping the Ganges River.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (boat rides cost INR 200-500)

Sarnath

A significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. It's home to several ancient stupas, temples, and museums.

Historical Half day Free (entry fees for some sites)

Manikarnika Ghat

One of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat is primarily used for cremation ceremonies. It's a profound and moving experience to witness the rituals here.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Founded by Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is one of India's most prestigious universities. The campus is vast and beautiful, with museums, temples, and lush gardens.

Educational 2-3 hours Free (entry fees for some sites)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kachori

A deep-fried, spiced pastry filled with a mixture of lentils, onions, and spices. It's a popular street food item in Varanasi.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Peda

A sweet made from condensed milk and sugar, often flavored with cardamom. Banarasi peda is famous for its rich and creamy texture.

Dessert Vegetarian

Malaiyo

A traditional Banarasi sweet made from reduced milk, sugar, and saffron. It's often served during festivals and special occasions.

Dessert Vegetarian

Chaat

A savory snack made with a variety of ingredients like potatoes, onions, chickpeas, and tangy tamarind sauce. It's a popular street food item.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Boat rides on the Ganges River Exploring narrow alleys and hidden temples Meditation and yoga sessions Attending the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat Visiting ancient temples and historical sites Swimming in the Ganges River (not recommended due to pollution) Attending winter festivals and fairs Visiting historical sites and museums

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and participating in various festivals. The city is lively with tourists and pilgrims.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Hindi
Widely spoken: English, Bhojpuri
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Varanasi is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing, scams, and petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings, and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Use common sense and stay alert
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be cautious of strangers and touts

Getting there

By air

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport • 24 km from city center

By train

Varanasi Junction, Manduar Diara

By bus

Varanasi Bus Stand, Sarnath Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Varanasi. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Varanasi Sarnath Cantt (Cantonment)

Day trips

Sarnath

10 km from Varanasi • Half day to full day

Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, known for its ancient stupas, temples, and museums. It's a peaceful and historically rich area, offering a contrast to the bustling old city of Varanasi.

Chunar

55 km from Varanasi • Full day

Chunar is a historic town known for its ancient fort, located on the banks of the Ganges River. The fort offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding countryside.

Rajghat

20 km from Varanasi • Half day

Rajghat is an ancient site located on the banks of the Ganges River, known for its historic significance and scenic beauty. It's a peaceful and serene place to visit, offering a break from the bustling city of Varanasi.

Festivals

Diwali • October or November (dates vary by lunar calendar) Maha Shivaratri • February or March (dates vary by lunar calendar) Ganga Mahotsav • November (dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide to navigate the city's narrow alleys and hidden temples.
Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat for a spectacular and moving cultural experience.
Try local street food and sweets, but be cautious and choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
Use common sense and stay alert to avoid scams, pickpocketing, and petty crime.